Morocco to Decide on Hakimi’s Participation in AFCON Opener Against Comoros

Posted : 20 December 2025

Morocco head coach Walid Regragui confirmed that he will wait until the morning of their Africa Cup of Nations opener against Comoros to determine whether Achraf Hakimi will be included in the starting lineup. The decision comes as the Paris Saint-Germain defender recovers from a severe ankle sprain sustained during a Champions League match against Bayern Munich on November 11.

Hakimi has not played for club or country since the injury, which saw him leave the pitch in tears after a collision with Luis Diaz. Despite the setback, the 27-year-old has been undergoing intensive rehabilitation to be ready for Morocco’s first match at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.

Speaking to ESPN on Saturday, Regragui expressed optimism about Hakimi’s recovery but emphasized the need to manage the player carefully. “Before tomorrow, I have one more good night of sleep, and then: ‘Does he play or not? Do we protect him for the challenges to come in the competition?’ That will be my job tomorrow,” the coach said. He praised Hakimi’s dedication, noting the defender’s sacrifices and effort over the past four to five weeks.

Hakimi, who was named CAF’s African Footballer of the Year on November 20, echoed the coach’s sentiments, highlighting his commitment to the team regardless of whether he plays. “My role as captain doesn’t change much for me whether I’m playing or not,” he said. “I try to make the effort, speak with all the players, motivate them, and set an example both on and off the pitch.”

The Moroccan squad enters the tournament with high expectations, boosted by the home advantage and their deep run to the 2022 World Cup semifinals. The team has yet to win the AFCON since their first triumph in 1976, but this talented group is considered one of the favourites for the 2025 edition.

Hakimi remains focused on the collective goal, stating, “I’ve had a great programme, and now the coach will decide. I want to see Morocco win, whether I play or not.” His leadership is expected to be a guiding influence for the squad, especially for younger players in the tournament.

Morocco’s AFCON schedule includes their opener against Comoros on Sunday, followed by a match against Mali on Boxing Day, and a final group-stage fixture against Zambia on December 29. Should they progress as group winners, the team will remain in Rabat through to the final, aiming to secure the continental crown on home soil.

Morocco to Decide on Hakimi’s Participation in AFCON Opener Against Comoros

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